Can't uninstall old Fences?!

from Stardock Forums

I'm very frustrated, all I want to do is get this software off my computer.  If I try to uninstall I get the message that I need stardock impulse installed to remove Fences.  Of course that does not seem to be available any more.  I tried installing version 2 with the hope that would overwirte the version I have and then allow me to uninstall it, but that install failes and tells me to uninstall version 1 and reboot before proceeding!

Thanks in advance for any help.  I'd poke around and start trying to delete things manually but I have no idea what this thing does in the registry and with it's tight integration with Windows I thought I should ask here first

fences
13,567 views 7 replies
Reply #1 from Stardock Forums Top

What version of Fences 1.x do you have - Pro or free? What exact version number?
Also, what is your Windows version?

Reply #2 from WinCustomize Forums Top

I had the same problem! Luckily I had an old version of impulse saved, and I used it to uninstall it.

Start11 - Customize the Start Menu and Taskbar in Windows 10/11.
Reply #3 from Stardock Forums Top

I also have the same problem, I have version 1.0.1.0 and am using Windows 7 (32 bit). I have emailed Support, but previous experience with support groups, has left me, not hopeful. Corky

Reply #4 from WinCustomize Forums Top

Quoting A666A, reply 2
I had the same problem! Luckily I had an old version of impulse saved, and I used it to uninstall it.
End of A666A's quote
Failing that, download and install Revo Uninstaller. Run it, let it scan on moderate and then delete only those items marked in bold type. Reboot, then install Fences 2. 

It will even create a restore point prior to removing anything, but I doubt you will need to use that. I've been using Revo for years and it has never let me down. It is a safe and highly effective means of uninstalling software.

Reply #5 from Stardock Forums Top

This is an old thread but I wanted to follow up.  Thanks for the advice to try Revo, it's a very cool program but unfortunately it couldn't get rid of fences either.  It appears next to impossible to get this garbage off of my computer, at least with my knowledge set.  I've tried everything, shutting down processes, then deleting the program files and registry settings, everything I know to try.  And no matter what I do it either insists I can't delete it because it's in use, or recreates what I am able to delete.

And it's the ultimate infuriating catch 22.  It insists I need the version that no longer exists to uninstall it, and if i try to install the new version with the hope that will help me to get it off, it tells me I can't install the new version until I uninstall the old version.  What a giant joke.

Reply #6 from Stardock Forums Top

OK, I spoke too soon.  Looks like I was in fact able to experience success with Revo.  Hooray

Reply #7 from WinCustomize Forums Top

Quoting Wizard1956, reply 4
I've been using Revo for years and it has never let me down.
End of Wizard1956's quote
 
Quoting newsgroups, reply 6
OK, I spoke too soon.  Looks like I was in fact able to experience success with Revo.  Hooray
End of newsgroups's quote

And another satisfied Revo user is born. :thumbsup:

P.S. In spite of your difficulty in removing the old version, Fences 2 is actually a rather good program with a large user base of home and corporate users. The Impulse association did mess with some Stardock software removal/updating after its sale, but you need not worry about that any more.